A1 Journal article (refereed)
Key advantages of the leverage points perspective to shape human-nature relations (2021)
Riechers, M., Loos, J., Balázsi, Á., García-Llorente, M., Bieling, C., Burgos-Ayala, A., Chakroun, L., Mattijssen, T. J., Muhr, M. M., Pérez-Ramírez, I., Raatikainen, K. J., Rana, S., Richardson, M., Rosengren, L., & West, S. (2021). Key advantages of the leverage points perspective to shape human-nature relations. Ecosystems and People, 17(1), 205-214. https://doi.org/10.1080/26395916.2021.1912829
JYU authors or editors
Publication details
All authors or editors: Riechers, Maraja; Loos, Jacqueline; Balázsi, Ágnes; García-Llorente, Marina; Bieling, Claudia; Burgos-Ayala, Aracely; Chakroun, Leila; Mattijssen, Thomas J.M.; Muhr, Maximilian M.; Pérez-Ramírez, Irene; et al.
Journal or series: Ecosystems and People
ISSN: 2639-5908
eISSN: 2639-5916
Publication year: 2021
Publication date: 01/01/2021
Volume: 17
Issue number: 1
Pages range: 205-214
Publisher: Taylor & Francis
Publication country: United Kingdom
Publication language: English
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/26395916.2021.1912829
Publication open access: Openly available
Publication channel open access: Open Access channel
Publication is parallel published (JYX): https://jyx.jyu.fi/handle/123456789/75285
Abstract
This perspective paper synthesises the special issue ‘Human-nature connectedness as a leverage point for sustainability transformation’. Based on the articles in this special issue, we aim to foster the operationalisation of the leverage points perspective to shape human-nature relations to enable sustainability transformations. Specifically, we draw on four key advantages of the leverage points perspective: (i) the explicit recognition of deep leverage points; (ii) the ability to examine the interactions between shallow and deep system changes; (iii) the combination of causal and teleological modes of research; and (iv) the ability to function as a methodological boundary object. The contributions to this special issue revealed three deep leverage points addressing paradigm shifts in research and beyond: relational thinking and values, stewardship philosophy and shifting the economic growth paradigm to focus on human well-being. We highlight interlinkages between leverage points to further strengthen the transformative potential of interventions that aim at triggering shifts in our understanding about human-nature relations. Further, we show a way to bridge causal and teleological approaches by envisioning desired futures. Lastly, we emphasise the potential of arts-based methodologies, including participatory, transdisciplinary research to foster sustainability transformation and how this can be combined within the leverage points perspective.
Keywords: relation to nature; sustainable development; societal change; research methods; multidisciplinary research; participatory research
Free keywords: Human-nature connectedness; milieu; relational turn; relational values; stewardship; transformative change
Contributing organizations
Ministry reporting: Yes
VIRTA submission year: 2021
JUFO rating: 1